Hey guys

So I have my main machine running Windows however I also have another machine that I'm (currently) running Ubuntu on so I can get into the whole Linux experience thing. I would like to learn more about it etc and I realise this isn't the forum for that...

Basically put I'd like to make a VGA splitter so I can share the monitor between the two machines so I don't have to keep switching the cable over and shit. I know I can buy one but I would much rather make one for the enjoyment and educational value. Having said that, I don't know where to start.

I can use a soldering iron and I have basic electronics skills. I would like to rig up a box that I can connect to both machines and have a switch to switch between the inputs.

Here's a little diagram because I have nothing better to do right now...

[Windows box]--)
}---<Splitter>---[Monitor]
[Linux box]----)


Any Help would be greatly appreciated.

It's not worth the effort. You can't connect the cables directly together; you need a switch. Not just any switch; a 15-pole double throw switch. Finding one will be very difficult, and ordering one will likely cost more than a cheap KVM.

I suppose you could wire up 15 SPDT switches, but even then switching them all takes a while.

Okay, so you don't need all 15 pins, but it's probably best to switch the grounds as well to avoid phantom currents.

KVM
5char

No worries. Cheers for the input.

Ah well...Worth a shot...And a guy can dream can he not? :p

I know you can also get pre-made VGA splitters, but that defeats the purpose of DIY

If you had three vga cables, you could have it so you just had to switch the plug over. You would also need a female/female adapter for one cable.

Plug one end of a cable into monitor, plug f-f adapter on the other end. Plug the other cables into a computer each and have the end of them somewhere easily accessible. Also have the monitor cable in the same place. Then you can just switch the plugged in cable over when you switch box.

Possibly cheaper than a kvm (don't know pricing)